Shopping can be thirsty work, especially when tackling the crowds in Oxford Street in the run up to Christmas .

Thankfully John Lewis has opened a chic bar on floor one of the famous London department store, in the name of Champagne Stories, to give shoppers a well deserved break.

What's more, the trendy venue has teamed up with Thomson and Scott to offer a Skinny Prosecco and Champagne - great for those wanting to be good ahead of the festive season.

With less than 0.1g of sugar per litre it's the perfect guilt-free indulgence.

But it's not just bubbles you can enjoy in the elegant bar, shoppers can put their feet up with a glass of wine and cocktail too.

Champagne Stories at John Lewis, Oxford Street

In fact, the range of cocktails are extensive and have glamorous names after designer labels including Louis Vuitton, Fendi and Dolce and Gabbana.

After marching up and down the busy street armed with paper bags, my partner and I couldn't wait to get our hands on one of the drinks.

The cocktail menu

With a smart table service, the bar may be a bit glam, but there is no dress code.

We turned up in jeans, trainers, oh and sweaty faces.

The bar at Champagne Stories at John Lewis

Most tables run along a wide window overlooking the hustle and bustle and there was something rather soothing being inside the warm and quiet bar.

Of the tempting beverages on offer, we tried a French Martini, Espresso Martini, Cupid's Kiss and Thomson and Scott's Skinny Champagne.

Without a doubt, the French Martini was my favourite.

French Martini

Vodka, Chambord, blackberries and a dash of pineapple juice was shaken together to create the creamiest, fruitiest cocktail and I didn't leave a dribble.

So you're probably thinking it's going to set you back a few pounds.

Thomson and Scott's Skinny Champagne and an Espresso Martini

Glasses of Prosseco start from £6.95, Champagne from £8.95 and cocktails from £10.95, so it's rather reasonable indeed, especially considering you are in the heart of central London.

So why not give you legs a break and your taste buds a treat when you head to the shops this Christmas?

Cupid's Kiss

Factbox:

Price: Glasses of Prosseco start from £6.95, Champagne from £8.95 and cocktails from £10.95

Address: Champagne Stories, First Floor, John Lewis, Oxford Street, London, W1C 1DX

Opening hours: Sun: 12pm-6pm, Mon-Wed and Fri-Sat 9.30am-8pm, Thurs 9.30am-9pm

Dress code: None

Nearest tube: Oxford Circus and Bond Street

Book: Booking not necessary, but can be made by calling 020 74917616

Inside Champagne Stories at John Lewis